This week, Smyrna will be tested by one of the traditionally strong programs in the state when they wrestle against Salesianum in Wilmington, on Thursday, January 3, at 7 p.m. Two weekends ago, at the 20th Annual Beast of the East Tournament, at the University of Delaware's Bob Carpenter, the Eagles had the best showing of any Delaware team, finishing in 27th place. Smyrna junior Brent Fleetwood won first place in the 113 lb. division. Meanwhile, the Sals came in 68th place overall. During that competition, Smyrna's Ashton Russell won by a pin over the Sals' Sam Dugan in a consolation round.

After the "Beast" competition, Smyrna coach Kurt Howell said he was very pleased that Fleetwood came away with the first place victory. "But I thought that overall the team could have done a little better. It may have been our inexperience, but I think we will improve over the rest of the season."

And improve they have! This past weekend the Eagles team won first place in the Tenth Annual Tiger Classic held at A.I. DuPont High School. Here is a look at the team standings:

1st – Smyrna 231.5

2nd – Germantown Academy, PA 167.5

3rd – Salesianum 158

4th – Matoaca, VA 154.5

5th – William Penn 144.5

It appears the Eagles are peaking at the right time. With the state tournament coming in early February, watch for Smyrna to remain the dominant team for the remainder of the season, especially if they handle the Sals easily.